Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities, and as a dad, I’ve made it my mission to create unforgettable memories with my kids. Summer is the perfect time to get out of the house, soak up the sun, and explore everything this vibrant city has to offer. From outdoor adventures to quirky museums, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Here’s how we’ve been spending our summer days, and maybe you’ll find some inspiration for your own family adventures.
Hiking Adventures in Nature
One of my favorite ways to start the day is by taking the kids on a hike. Living in LA, we’re lucky to have access to incredible trails that are both kid-friendly and scenic. Our go-to spot is the Griffith Park trails. The hike up to Amir’s Garden is short and manageable for little legs, and the reward—a peaceful, colorful garden with shady spots—is well worth it. Watching my kids run around, pretending to be explorers, makes the uphill climb feel like nothing.
Another hit is the Eaton Canyon trail in Pasadena. It’s got a stream running along parts of the trail, which my kids love splashing around in. At the end of the hike, there’s a waterfall—a huge payoff that always leaves them wide-eyed. Plus, I sneak in some exercise, which feels like a win-win.
Beach Days Done Right
No LA summer is complete without hitting the beach. I’ve learned over time that it’s all about finding the right beach for kids. For us, that’s usually Dockweiler Beach. It’s got a relaxed vibe, plenty of room to set up camp, and the kids love watching planes take off from LAX nearby. Plus, bonfire pits mean we can stay late, roast marshmallows, and watch the sunset.
When we’re in the mood for something a little different, we head to Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey. It’s calm, clean, and has lifeguards, which keeps me from hovering too much while the kids splash around. We bring buckets, shovels, and snacks, and honestly, the hours seem to fly by.
Immersive Museum Experiences
Los Angeles is packed with museums, and thankfully, a lot of them cater to curious kids. The California Science Center is one of our favorites—it’s hands-on, interactive, and lets the kids get their energy out while learning something new. The space shuttle Endeavour is a must-see, and I’ll admit, I get as excited about it as they do.
Another gem is the Natural History Museum. My youngest is obsessed with dinosaurs, so the Dino Hall is always the first stop. Watching their faces light up as they see the skeletons towering over them? That’s a core memory right there.
For something more offbeat, the Museum of Illusions in Hollywood is a blast. It’s full of mind-bending exhibits and photo ops, and it’s one of those rare places where the kids and I are equally entertained.
Exploring Farmer’s Markets
I never thought I’d say this, but farmer’s markets are a hit with my kids. There’s something exciting about wandering through rows of colorful produce, sampling fresh fruit, and picking out ingredients for dinner together. The Original Farmers Market on Fairfax is a classic spot—it’s got a mix of fresh produce stands and food stalls, so we always grab lunch there after browsing.
For a more laid-back experience, the South Pasadena Farmers Market is a favorite. It’s smaller, less crowded, and has a grassy area where the kids can run around while I sip on a fresh-squeezed lemonade. Plus, supporting local vendors feels good.
Theme Park Escapades
When it comes to all-out fun, theme parks are hard to beat. Disneyland is, of course, a magical experience, but it’s not something we do every summer—it’s a bit of a splurge. When we do go, I make sure to plan ahead (pro tip: download the app to save yourself some headaches). Seeing the kids meet their favorite characters and experience the rides for the first time is pure joy.
On other weekends, we love Universal Studios Hollywood. My kids are big into anything Harry Potter, so we spend a lot of time at the Wizarding World, sipping butterbeer and waving wands at random objects (because magic might be real, right?). It’s a bit exhausting, but 100% worth it.
Outdoor Movie Nights
There’s something special about watching a movie under the stars, and LA has plenty of opportunities to do just that. Rooftop Cinema Club has family-friendly showings, and they provide comfy chairs, blankets, and wireless headphones, so you’re not straining to hear over a chatty crowd.
Another option is Street Food Cinema, which combines outdoor movies with live music and food trucks. The kids love spreading out on a picnic blanket, munching on tacos or popcorn, and settling in for a classic movie. It’s a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for summer.
Discovering Quirky LA Spots
One of the best parts of living in LA is stumbling upon spots you didn’t even know existed. We recently visited the La Brea Tar Pits, and while I thought I’d be the only one fascinated by bubbling asphalt, the kids were totally into it. They loved hearing about the prehistoric animals that got trapped there and checking out the fossils in the museum.
Another hidden gem is the Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park. It’s a small train museum that lets kids climb aboard vintage locomotives and learn about the history of railroads. The highlight, though, is the miniature train ride. It’s simple, charming, and surprisingly relaxing.
Cool Treats for Hot Days
If there’s one thing my kids constantly beg for in the summer, it’s ice cream. And in LA, we’re spoiled for choice. Salt & Straw is a favorite for their quirky flavors (I’m still thinking about the Honey Lavender), while the kids stick to classics like chocolate or vanilla.
For something different, we love hitting up Mashti Malone’s in Hollywood. Their Persian-style ice cream, with flavors like rosewater and saffron, is a fun change of pace. And on days when we want something lighter, Pressed provides refreshing (and healthier) frozen treats that still feel indulgent.
Biking Along the Strand
One activity that’s become a summer tradition for us is renting bikes and cruising along The Strand, the iconic bike path that runs along the beach. We usually start in Santa Monica or Venice and take our time, stopping to grab a snack or justenjoy the view. If you’ve got younger kids, some rental shops have trailers or kids’ bikes, so no one gets left behind.
It’s a great way to burn off some energy, and there’s something about the salty breeze and ocean views that makes the whole experience feel like a little vacation.
Wrapping Up the Day
At the end of a long day, I like to keep things simple. Sometimes we’ll grab dinner at a kid-friendly spot like The Original Pizza Cookery, where the kids can watch their pizza being made. Other nights, we’ll order takeout, head to a local park, and have an impromptu picnic as the sun sets.
No matter how we spend our days, what matters most is the time we’re sharing together. Being a dad in Los Angeles means I have the chance to create these incredible memories with my kids, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. So here’s to more summer adventures, more laughter, and more moments that remind me why being a parent is the best job in the world.
